Thomas Prasch, Speaker
Professor and chair of the History Department at Washburn University
World's Fair Remnants in Kansas
Presentation by: Thomas Prasch
Ice cream cones. Ferris wheels. Hot dogs. Cotton candy. All these iconic items were first introduced at world's fairs held in America. The very first international exposition, known commonly as a world’s fair, launched in London in 1851 at the Crystal Palace. Since then, innovations in architecture, engineering, foods, and futuristic visions have debuted at fairs across the globe, including ones held in the United States. Oftentimes lasting legacies remained, such as Seattle’s Space Needle, Forest Park in St. Louis, and the US Open site in New York. Surprisingly, Kansas, which has never hosted an international exhibition, is home to at least four striking legacies of significant world’s fairs. This talk will share the history and significance of international exhibitions worldwide and focus on the wonders held today in the towns of Lawrence, Lindsborg, and Wamego.
Contact Thomas directly about speaking at your event:
tom.prasch@washburn.edu
(785) 357-0928
Topeka